IMD in Portugal
International Microorganism Day 2025 at Técnico
When: 17 September 2025
Time: 14:00 - 18:00
Where: Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon
Event Description: To celebrate International Microorganism Day 2025, Técnico is proud to host a dynamic and educational event that highlights the essential role of microbiology in our lives and on the planet. From health and climate change adaptation to sustainable agriculture, microbiology remains at the forefront of scientific progress.
The programme will feature invited talks by national experts, who will explore the many ways in which microbiology is transforming our understanding of the world.
A highlight of the event is the return of the popular “Microbiology Trail”, an interactive, hands-on experience specially designed for children, teenagers, and students of all levels. Participants will follow a trail of engaging stations, where they will take part in games, experiments, and demonstrations, each revealing a fascinating aspect of microbial life. As they progress, they will gather clues to solve challenges and quizzes, with fun prizes for the winners!
Target audience: School groups (primary to secondary), university students, families, and the public interested in science.
Objective: To raise awareness of the impact of microbiology on society and inspire curiosity about the microbial world through education, outreach, and hands-on exploration.
Registration:
Attendance is free, but school and group visits can be registered in advance.
Please contact us at geral@bioengenharia.tecnico.ulisboa.pt to receive more information.
Join us for an afternoon of discovery, fun, and celebration of the invisible organisms that shape our visible world!
International Microorganism Day at FCUP
When: 17 September 2025
Time: 13:00 - 17:00
Where: Faculty of Sciences - University of Porto
Event Description: To celebrate International Microorganism Day, FCUP will host an engaging educational event aimed at high school students (9th–12th grade). The objective is to promote microbiology literacy and inspire curiosity about the microbial world, its applications, and its essential role in health, the environment, and biotechnology.
The programme includes:
Pedipaper – Microscopic Mission: an interactive outdoor game with microbiology challenges held in the FCUP gardens.
Kahoot – Micróbio no Divã: a fun quiz based on episodes of the “Micróbio no Divã” podcast, enhancing understanding of the microbiota.
Illustration Contest – “What do microorganisms look like?”: a creative competition where students illustrate real or imagined microorganisms.
Laboratory Visits: guided tours of microbiology research labs to showcase spaces and working conditions.
Special Lecture – Microorganisms: invisible enemies or essential allies? A talk exploring the vital roles of microorganisms in health, environment, and biotechnology.
Speakers: Researchers and teaching staff from FCUP’s Microbiology and Biology Departments will share their expertise during the lecture and laboratory visits.
Target audience: High school students from four schools in the surrounding area of FCUP. Approximately 100 students are expected to participate.
Organisation: All activities are organised in a rotational format, allowing all students to take part in each activity throughout the afternoon.
Registration: Schools will be contacted directly to arrange group participation.
This event combines interactive learning, creativity, and direct contact with research environments, fostering scientific curiosity and awareness of microbiology’s impact on daily life.